Advanced Anatomy *Required

Course Summary

Advanced Anatomy is designed to provide yoga teachers with an in-depth understanding of the human body and its application to the practice of yoga. Building upon the foundational knowledge of anatomy, this course delves into the intricacies of the musculoskeletal, soft tissue and nervous systems, exploring their relevance to yoga postures, alignment, and modifications. Participants will deepen their knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics, enabling them to guide students safely and effectively in their yoga practice.  

Course Objectives:  

-Comprehensive Study of the Musculoskeletal System: This course will offer a detailed examination of the bones, joints, muscles, and connective tissues involved in yoga asanas. Participants will learn the functions and movements of major anatomical structures, gaining a solid foundation for understanding alignment, modifications, and potential injuries related to yoga practice.

-Functional Anatomy and Biomechanics: This section of the course will explore the principles of biomechanics and how they relate to yoga asanas. Participants will gain insight into joint mechanics, muscle actions, and kinetic chains, enabling them to analyze and refine postures for optimal safety and effectiveness.

-Injury Prevention and Modifications: With a deep understanding of anatomy and biomechanics, participants will learn how to prevent common yoga-related injuries and provide appropriate modifications for students with specific limitations or conditions. This section will emphasize the importance of individualized instruction, encouraging teachers to cater to the unique needs of their students.

-Integration of Anatomy into Teaching: Participants will learn effective strategies for incorporating anatomical knowledge into their teaching. This includes cueing alignment, offering hands-on adjustments, and using anatomical language to guide students' understanding of their bodies in yoga postures.

-Practical Application and Teaching Practice: Throughout the module, participants will engage in hands-on activities, group discussions, and a teaching practice session. They will have opportunities to apply their anatomical knowledge by leading sequences, offering adjustments, and addressing students' concerns related to anatomy and alignment.

Course Prerequisites: Participants must have completed a foundational yoga teacher training program. Basic knowledge of the major muscles and bones, typical of what is given in a 200 hour YTT, is sufficient, as this course will start on the assumption these basic structures are understood so that we can jump into more advanced concepts.

Course Curriculum

Erin VanderBunt, EdD

Here's a little about Erin, who is a also student of yoga and has taught anatomy to yoga teachers as well:

 Erin is a full-time professor in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. She obtained her Doctor of Education and Master of Science degrees in Sports Health Care from ATSU Arizona School of Health Sciences in Mesa, Arizona, and she obtained her undergraduate degree in Kinesiology, with an Athletic Training emphasis, from the University of Illinois.

Erin began her career as a Certified Athletic Trainer and has served in a variety of athletic training positions, including Head Athletic Trainer at Paradise Valley Community College, Co-head Athletic Trainer at Deer Valley High School and as the Clinical Coordinator for the Sports Health Care Program at Arizona School of Health Sciences. While at ATSU Arizona School of Health Sciences, her primary research interests were related to Disordered Eating and the Female Athlete Triad.

Erin teaches a variety of physical activity related Kinesiology courses, as well as Biomechanics and Functional Anatomy. 

Course Pricing

Most popular

20 Hour Module Pricing

$325 USD

  • For general participation and Yoga Alliance Continuing Education hours. 300 YTT students use discount coupon code.

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